5 ways to reduce hospital readmissions

Reducing readmissions is a top priority for healthcare providers. Not only does it lead to increased costs for the healthcare system, but it also can negatively impact patient outcomes. But how can healthcare providers effectively combat this issue? The key lies in several key strategies, and Cortex can aid in implementing them. 

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Let's take a closer look at the problem of readmissions in the healthcare industry. Not only can they lead to costly financial losses, but they can also have a major impact on patient outcomes. Imagine a patient finally leaving the hospital after a long stay, only to be readmitted soon after. This not only disrupts their recovery process but can also lead to complications and a decline in overall health. It's a frustrating and concerning problem for healthcare providers, but there are ways to combat it.

So, how can healthcare providers combat this issue? Several key strategies can help:

  • Proper discharge planning: It's not just about giving them medications and appointments but also equipping them with the knowledge and resources they need to manage their condition independently. By having a clear plan for follow-up care, such as home health visits or primary care appointments, patients can manage their condition and avoid readmissions.
  • Follow-up care: Regular follow-up care, whether home health visits, primary care appointments, or even a quick phone call, can make all the difference in ensuring that your patients are on the right track to recovery. It can help you identify and address any complications early on and show your patients that you truly care about their well-being and want to see them succeed in their recovery journey.
  • Medication management: Ensuring that patients take their medications correctly and have the right medication to manage their condition is crucial for their recovery. Imagine having a personal medication coach, who reminds you to take your meds, explains why it's important to take them as prescribed, and checks in on you to make sure you're on the right track. With this kind of care and support, you can be confident that you're taking the necessary steps to manage your condition and prevent any complications from arising.
  • Education: Providing patients with information about their condition, including how to manage it and what to do if their condition worsens, healthcare providers empower patients to take an active role in their recovery. From written materials to videos, or even in-person education, learning about your condition can make all the difference in understanding and managing it effectively, leading to better outcomes and a higher chance of recovery. 
  • Coordination of care: By connecting the dots between primary care physicians, specialists, home health agencies, and rehabilitation facilities, patients can receive the comprehensive support they need to recover and avoid any unfortunate readmissions. With all hands on deck, you can rest easy knowing that your health is in the best of hands.

Imagine having a powerful tool that helps you keep track of your patients' well-being even after they leave the hospital. That's exactly what Cortex offers - a cutting-edge platform that provides real-time data and analytics on patient progress, making it easy for healthcare providers to identify potential complications and address them before they become bigger issues. And that's not all; Cortex's network of RNs acts as an extra layer of support for patients, providing them with answers to their questions and the necessary resources and information to manage their condition. With Cortex, you can rest easy knowing your patients are receiving the best care possible and preventing readmissions.

Want to know how Cortex can help?